Since Windows 95 I have been suffering terrible pangs of loss. I had somehow missed the Windows 95 version of Laplink and had been trying to exchange files using the Cable function that comes with Win95. Argh! The trouble with free stuff is you get what you pay for, and even then it usually isn't worth the money. It's like Windows own networking functionality which is extremely ordinary when compared with Lantastic.

So when the Laplink lady promised to send a copy of Laplink Tech my way I was rapt. And my rapture increased when I loaded the software and let it rip. This is the version that really tries to look after those of us who support and/or regularly work with machines. Files can be transferred across the familiar serial or parallel cable, and also across phone lines, TCP/IP, and lots more. Now you can dial up another computer (that has Laplink Tech running), put on your headset and chat to the person at the other end while you exchange files or run applications. I patched Visual Basic in a Microsoft Access database by connecting across Laplink Tech and running the other computer from my monitor and keyboard. Slow as mud, of course, but it worked.

For those without sound/headsets/microphones you can also chat by keyboard. Think of all the times you wanted to just fix Uncle Fred's set up without travelling miles to get to his machine.

Laplink Tech also comes with Ghost, a PC cloning tool, which is great for those who have a particular configuration that needs to be installed on many machines (e.g., PC Support people setting up new machines in businesses). It comes with a small, sufficient, hard copy manual (YES!), and joy of joys! it keeps it's multi-pane interface instead of going to the crappy Windows Explorer navigation windows as so many other programs have done.

This is THE must-have program for anyone who is serious about computing. Run, don't walk to your local retailer and buy a copy. If they don't know about it -- show them this review. Or, since you're online, find a nice, reliable online vendor.